17 men walked through the door of a new men's mental health support and suicide prevention group on its opening night. 

Andy's Man Club (AMC) Wigton, which launched on November 4 at Innovia on West Road, makes it the nationwide charity's 207th club.

The AMCs mission is to combat male suicide, the leading cause of death among men under 50 in the UK, as well as reduce the stigma around men's mental health. 

John Miller, a group facilitator, described seeing 16 others turn up on the opening night as a ‘buzz’.

"I'd like to thank Richard Graham, Jake Alexander, Zac Davenport, David Jackson, and Danny McCracken for being there and helping make the club a success," he said. 

"I'd also like to thank Margaret Miller and Amy Jackson for the lovely cakes they baked for us.

" Wigton Mayor, Sandra Hodson, councillor Christopher Scott, and Wigton Town Council for the support they've given in the lead-up to opening the club, and Innovia Films for the great venue and the ongoing support for Andy's Man Club.

"I'd finally like to thank the people of Wigton and the surrounding area for turning up and making the night a success.

"Already looking forward to doing it all over again next Monday night, hopefully with a little less stress."

AMC Carlisle members, Scott Squire, Martin Fisher, Chris Green and Shaun Laverty (Image: Chris Green) Wigton’s town councillor and former mayor, Christopher Scott, was among those on opening night.

 "17 guys came along to share their worries and troubles. It was amazing to see five of us make the brave first step into the club," he said. 

"The atmosphere was welcoming and supportive, and everyone felt comfortable opening up about their struggles.

"The club provided a safe space for the men to talk about their problems without fear of judgment.

"They were able to share their thoughts and feelings with others who understood what they were going through.

"It was a relief for many of them to finally have a place where they could be honest about their mental health and receive the support they need."

Carlisle United owners, Piataks family, join Andy Man Club reps at Brunton Park during a previous awareness outing. Carlisle United owners, Piataks family, join Andy Man Club reps at Brunton Park during a previous awareness outing. (Image: AMCCarlisle)

AMC already has clubs in Carlisle, Maryport, Barrow, Whitehaven, Workington, and Cockermouth, with a second group in Carlisle set to open soon at Carlisle East Fire Station.

Sessions are held every Monday evening (excluding bank holidays), and men aged 18 and over are welcome to attend.